Tucker Named Ketterlinus Principal

Kathy Tucker, Assistant Principal at Osceola Elementary School (OES), has been appointed the new Principal of Ketterlinus Elementary School (KES) starting July 1.

Kathy Tucker, Assistant Principal at Osceola Elementary School (OES), has been named by Superintendent Joseph Joyner to serve as the new Principal of Ketterlinus Elementary School (KES). She will replace Wayne Jenkins, who had previously requested a transfer to a guidance position. “I want to thank Wayne for his seven years of outstanding leadership at Ketterlinus,” said Dr. Joyner. “He has asked to return to his first love of student counseling and guidance, and I am honoring his request.” Ms. Tucker has been employed by the St. Johns County School District since 1995 and has served as Assistant Principal of OES for the past four years. Prior to that, she spent three years as Assistant Principal at Cunningham Creek Elementary School and eight years as a teacher at KES. In 2001 she received National Board Certification and was also named the KES Teacher of the Year. “After listening to the characteristics the Ketterlinus teachers and community desired in their new principal, it was very clear to me that they were describing Kathy Tucker,” said Dr. Joyner. “She is an outstanding leader who has my highest level of confidence.” While at Osceola, Ms. Tucker coordinated the school fundraiser, “Megabuck$ for Megabyte$,” which has raised over $50,000 for technology. In addition, she organized the school’s inaugural Turtle Trot 5K and Fun Run held on February 27, with 22 schools and several area businesses and organizations vying for technology prizes. Ms. Tucker has also been successful in grant writing, She has received funding to purchase Leapfrog products, to create a student web site on Fort Mose and to develop the first Literature Night at KES. “I feel like I’m coming home,” said the new KES Principal. “This is where I started in the district and I’m so pleased to be returning to Ketterlinus.” Ms. Tucker holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of North Florida. Her appointment will be effective July 1.